Bramson endorsed by CSEA in Westchester exec race

New Rochelle Mayor Noam Bramson was endorsed by the CSEA Southern Region Political Action Committee Friday in his race for Westchester county executive in an announcement in front of the county office building in White Plains.

CSEA Southern Region President Billy Riccaldo said the endorsement of Bramson, the Democratic mayor of New Rochelle, is one of the biggest the union will make this year in the state.

“We’re pledging right now to get boots on the ground, knock on doors, whatever we have to do, go across lines to get help, to make this happen,” he said.

The union, the largest in Westchester County government, has been locked in a stalemate with the administration of Republican County Executive Rob Astorino over its contract. Astorino has been asking for health contributions and the union has been looking for job guarantees in exchange. The union has also been hit hard by layoffs.

The Astorino campaign responded, noting that his staff and five other county unions contribute to health care.

“The CSEA refused. It’s no wonder CSEA bosses endorsed Bramson. Mr. Bramson is a politician who voted himself healthcare for life after just five years of service,” said Jessica Proud, a spokeswoman for the campaign.

Photo: Noam Bramson, center in tie, is running for Westchester county executive against the incumbent Republican County Executive Rob Astorino. He was endorsed Friday by the CSEA.